Threats Deemed Not Credible; Investigations Continue

Las Cruces Public Schools, working in conjunction with the Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD) and the Mayor’s office, has received information about several threats against LCPS campuses. None of the threats have been deemed credible, however, any and all threats are being investigated, according to LCPS officials.

“At this time, we have no credible evidence to substantiate any of these claims,” said Superintendent Dr. Greg Ewing. “However, as a precautionary measure, we will continue to work with LCPD to investigate all threats and we have instructed all staff to continue to remain vigilant.”

Ewing has instructed all school administrators to continue to monitor activity in their respective school buildings and begin reviewing safety drills with faculty, staff, and students to ensure all individuals feel safe and that learning continues as normal.

The claims made over the past two days, some of which were made over social media, are being thoroughly investigated by LCPD. Some students have been detained and are being interviewed by police and school officials.

Due to the presence of several false and misleading social media posts, officials said community members should always visit the district website directly for any information regarding a school campus. LCPD reminds users of social media to refrain from sharing or re-posting false or misleading posts that can create unnecessary fear and the rapid spread of misinformation.

“Unfortunately, individuals have chosen to use the state of heightened tension in the wake the recent tragedy in Parkland, Florida in an attempt to spread fear and confusion locally and nationally,” Ewing said. “We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our students and staff and we will continue to work with law enforcement to investigate any and all threats.”

Ewing said any student found to be involved in making threats against any individual or school campus will face appropriate disciplinary actions.

According to a news release from LCPD, during the police investigation of a threat Wednesday evening (Feb. 21), it was learned that a classroom conversation on the tragic shooting that occurred in Florida somehow morphed into one individual believing that a threat existed locally. Using that incorrect assumption, the individual posted the inaccurate information to social media and the post was shared by others multiple times. LCPD then tracked down the source of the post and determined it originated from misinformation.

LCPS will continue to update the district website (www.lcps.k12.nm.us) with any new information that may arise.

News Calendar

February 2018

The Las Cruces Public Schools, in partnership with students, families, and the community, provides a student-centered learning environment that cultivates character, fosters academic excellence, and embraces diversity.